THE NET KEEPS SNAGGING 'EM

Small business has leapt onto the Internet in the past year. More than 40% of all businesses now say the Net has changed the way they operate. The most popular uses are research, E-mail, and advertising and promotion, according to consultant George S. May International Co.'s second survey on use of the Internet by small businesses. Fewer business owners this year offer excuses for staying unplugged, leaving a hard core who simply see ''no need'' for the Net in their business.